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Looking for travel inspiration? Check out former student Samantha Straitz’s review of Berlin.

If you’re looking for a city steeped in history, but with a very modern and contemporary feel, Berlin may be the destination for you. Only a two-hour flight from London, Berlin is an ideal weekend get-away offering fantastic sightseeing during the day with great nightlife.

The Brandenburg Gate, a must-see destination while in Berlin, is located right next to many other locations making it possible to view the Gate both during the day and at night. The roof terrace and dome of the Reichstag offer spectacular views of the parliamentary and government districts and Berlin’s sights. Admission is free but advance registration is required, To do so, click here. The Dome is a perfect place to visit at sunset as you watch the TV tower and the rest of Berlin light up from above.

Close to the Reichstag is a Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe, a somber yet stunning display of how Germany seeks to acknowledge its history. The Jewish Museum is a stop everyone should make in Berlin as is the Topographie des Terrors, an outdoor/indoor museum located at the same site as the headquarters of the Gestapo, SS, and Reich Security Office were positioned during the Third Reich.

The East Side Gallery is the longest remaining section of the Berlin Wall at 1.3 km with approximately 106 painting from artists all over the world dedicated to freedom, making the East Side Gallery the largest open-air gallery in the world. Both the East Side Gallery and Checkpoint Charlie are within walking distance of the Topographie des Terrors.

Museum Island, and particularly the Berlin Cathedral, is a beautiful display of architecture. Beautiful inside and out, and offering incredible views of Berlin, the Dome and the church itself is well worth the €4 admission. Open daily from 9:00-20:00 Monday through Saturday and 12:00-20:00 Sundays and Holidays.

At night, there are many interesting clubs and venues offering live music and trendy décor to suit anyone’s taste. There is also a timely 24-hour train service making transportation around the city a breeze.